What is the scope of the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea?

The Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, commonly referred to as the COLREGS, is a 1972 treaty that applies to all vessels in the open seas and governs how vessels should interact and respond to one another to avoid collisions. The COLREGS are applicable to all vessels that are more than seven meters in length. The COLREGS set out general navigation rules for ships to adhere to, as well as specific rules for vessels operating in traffic separation schemes. The COLREGS also require vessels to give way to certain classes of vessels in certain circumstances, such as power-driven vessels giving way to sailing vessels. In addition, the COLREGS contain guidelines for navigating in fog and determining visibility, as well as rules for the use of searchlights, whistle signals, and flags. All vessels must comply with the COLREGS, and any vessel found to be in violation can be subject to penalties and fines. The COLREGS serve as the foundation of maritime law in California, and all mariners in the state must understand and adhere to these regulations.

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